Finding a secular homeschool community that fits your family's style can feel like a treasure hunt. These five organizations offer everything from flexible co-ops to online resources, so you can find your people and enrich your kids' learning.
The Landscape of Secular Homeschooling
Secular homeschooling is on the rise, with families seeking educational freedom without religious overtones. Co-ops and resource networks have sprung up to fill the need for community, shared classes, and social opportunities. From local meetups to national online communities, these groups offer support for every homeschooling style. Whether you're looking for drop-in workshops or structured classes, there's a secular option for you. The key is finding a group that aligns with your values and your kids' needs.
How We Evaluated These Communities
We looked at each organization's service scope, including the variety of classes and activities offered. Pricing clarity was also key, as families need to know what they're committing to. Local fit mattered, too, especially for co-ops that serve specific geographic areas. We considered the flexibility of each program, from drop-in workshops to structured courses. Finally, we assessed the community's inclusivity and how well it supports diverse homeschooling approaches.
Here's a quick snapshot of each organization to help you compare at a glance.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| LEARN Home Education Network | Kansas City families seeking a collaborative secular community |
| Home | Families wanting a flexible, student-led co-op experience |
| City Roots Homeschool Coop | St. Louis families seeking a diverse, city-centered co-op |
| SEA Homeschoolers | National community and secular homeschooling resources |
| Nashville Secular Homeschoolers | Nashville families seeking a supportive secular community |
A Closer Look at Each Community
#1 LEARN Home Education Network
LEARN is a secular homeschool community in the Greater Kansas City area that emphasizes collaboration and affordability. It offers class co-ops like SCENE and CIRCLE, plus a Forest School, giving families a range of learning environments. The network also hosts social events and provides a supportive ecosystem for home educators. If you're in the KC metro, LEARN is a solid choice for connecting with like-minded families. Their inclusive approach ensures everyone feels welcome, regardless of their educational philosophy.
#2 Home
A screenshot of the Inkwell Homeschool Collective website.
Inkwell Homeschool Collective is a flexible, interdisciplinary co-op that fuels curiosity through student-led learning. It offers enrichment activities, instructor-led classes, workshops, clubs, teams, and committees, all within a secular framework. Parents can participate as much or as little as they like, making it easy to fit into busy schedules. The emphasis on student-led interest groups sets it apart, giving kids real ownership over their learning. If you're looking for a co-op that adapts to your family's unique style, Inkwell is worth exploring.
#3 City Roots Homeschool Coop
A screenshot of the City Roots Homeschool Coop website.
City Roots Homeschool Co-op is a secular, city-focused community in St. Louis that values diversity and sustainability. They offer classes and social opportunities, including park days, library hours, and teen cohorts. The co-op is committed to welcoming families from various marginalized groups, creating an inclusive space. Their urban focus helps kids connect with the city's resources and perspectives. If you're in the St. Louis area and want a community that celebrates diversity, City Roots is a great fit.
#4 SEA Homeschoolers
A screenshot of the SEA Homeschoolers website.
SEA Homeschoolers is a national secular homeschool community with over 100,000 families. They offer free online conferences, a quarterly magazine, and a wealth of articles on secular homeschooling. Their focus on 'secular eclectic academic' homeschooling supports a handcrafted education approach. If you're looking for resources, community, and inspiration, SEA is a treasure trove. It's perfect for families who want to connect with a broader secular homeschooling movement.
#5 Nashville Secular Homeschoolers
Nashville Secular Homeschoolers is a diverse and inclusive community that provides resources and support for secular homeschooling families. Their blog offers helpful posts explaining co-ops, tutorials, and enrichment programs, making it easier for newcomers to navigate the landscape. They also host community events and provide coaching, fostering deep connections among members. If you're in the Nashville area, this group is a valuable resource for finding your people. Their emphasis on inclusivity ensures everyone feels welcome.
How to Choose the Right Secular Homeschool Community
Start by considering your family's educational philosophy and how much structure you want. If you prefer a flexible, student-led approach, look for co-ops like Inkwell that emphasize student choice. For those who want a more structured class schedule, LEARN's co-ops might be a better fit. Think about your location—local co-ops like City Roots offer in-person connections, while national groups like SEA provide online resources. Also, consider your budget and how much time you can commit to volunteering. Finally, reach out to the community to get a feel for their culture and values.
Streamlining Your Homeschool Routine
Once you've chosen a community, you can streamline your homeschool routine by using tools to manage schedules and communications. Many co-ops use platforms like Homeschool-Life for calendars and class catalogs, so you can stay organized. For online resources, consider using a feed reader to keep up with blogs like Nashville Secular Homeschoolers. Automating reminders for park days or class sign-ups can save you time. You can also use shared documents to coordinate with other parents in your co-op. These small automations free you up to focus on the actual learning.
Finding Your Secular Homeschool Tribe
Each of these five communities offers something unique, from local co-ops to national networks. The right choice depends on your family's needs, location, and educational style. Whether you're drawn to Inkwell's student-led flexibility or LEARN's collaborative classes, there's a secular option for you. Take the time to explore each one, attend a meetup, or join an online group. You'll soon find a community that supports your homeschooling journey and enriches your kids' lives.